March is Fraud Prevention Month in Canada

As March is Fraud Prevention Month in Canada, the Prince Edward Island RCMP Federal Investigations Unit would like to raise awareness in the province about identity theft so that people take steps to protect their personal information.

"Victims of identity theft can experience financial loss and may have difficulty obtaining credit or restoring their 'good name'," states a news release from P.E.I. RCMP.

Identity theft techniques can range from unsophisticated, such as dumpster diving and mail theft, to more elaborate schemes involving email or phone frauds.

"Always be sure to shred personal and financial documents before putting them in the garbage," states the release. Don't feel pressured to provide your personal information to someone who calls or emails you asking for it."

People contacted for personal information can always refuse the request and contact the company, such as a bank, directly using published numbers or email addresses to be sure they're communicating with a legitimate representative.